I’m embarrassed about some of my personal
choices and don’t want to talk about them
with my doctor.

What lies do people frequently tell their doctor? According to studies these are the things patients commonly lie about, ranked from highest to lowest.

Top 10 lies patients tell to their doctors

Taking medications as prescribed

How much exercise they are getting

How they don’t smoke/or how much they actually smoke

How much casual sex they are having

How much alcohol they drink

Use of illegal drugs

Use of alternative medicine/supplements or therapy

Family history of illnesses

Underrating or exaggerating symptoms

Conducting self-breast exams (for women)

Each of these patient lies can affect the medical advice or treatment you receive– and may not work to your benefit.

If cost is a concern, remember that doctors pay bills and have financial stresses just like everyone else. If you are concerned that any recommended treatment may not be within your budget or insurance coverage, make your doctor aware of your concern. If you are honest about this worry, your doctor will be able to explore other options.

You should also already have some questions in mind before you even see the doctor. If you aren’t honest and accurate with your doctor, his or her best medical advice will be compromised. Your doctor is not a judge of your behaviors; he or she is there to keep you healthy and get you the best medical care.

If you need an advocate to help you have a difficult conversation with your doctor, give us a call, we can be By Your Side!

Twenty nine years as a physician have brought me great personal and professional satisfaction, but a new passion has driven me to change directions within the healthcare system. I'm acutely aware of the confusion and frustration that patients face as they navigate the healthcare "maze" and look forward to helping patients in many new ways as a private healthcare advocate.